The Liberal Attitude of Langston Hughes toward the Americans

Answer

Describe the liberal attitude of Langston Hughes towards America. [NU: 2015, 19, 21] ★★★ 

Langston Hughes (1901–1967) is one of the most important poets of the Harlem Renaissance. He wrote about the struggles, history, and dreams of African Americans. Hughes loved America and he criticized its injustice. His attitude was liberal, because he wanted freedom, equality, and dignity for all. He believed America should belong to every citizen, regardless of race. His poems show this liberal and hopeful attitude.

Hope for Equality: In “I, Too, Sing America” (1926), Hughes directly expresses his liberal vision of America. In this poem, the speaker is a black man. He calls himself “the darker brother.” Because of his skin color, he is not given respect. He sadly says that he is sent to eat in the kitchen when guests come. He is not allowed to sit at the table with others.

“They send me to eat in the kitchen

When company comes.”

This shows the racial inequality of American society. But Hughes does not reply with hate. Instead, he speaks with hope and patience. The speaker says,

“Tomorrow,

I’ll be at the table

When company comes.”

This means that one day, there will be equality. The liberal attitude here is clear: he believes America can change. He believes in a future where everyone has the same rights.

Freedom of Expression Through Music: In “The Weary Blues” (1925), Hughes shows a Black musician singing on Lenox Avenue. His song is full of sadness. He sings:

“I ain’t happy no mo’ 

And I wish that I had died.”

Here, the singer is sad because of racial injustice. His sadness is actually the sadness of all black African-Americans. Yet, even in sadness, the music becomes a way of survival. This is his liberal attitude. He shows how art gave voice to suffering.

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